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Rhys Owens recently retired from the post of Principal Trumpet with the RLPO after 30 years of service, following a diagnosis of MND.  

Friends and colleagues of Rhys cycled from Manchester to Liverpool on October 18th to raise funds for Wirral Group of the Motor Neurone Disease Association. This worthy charity has been a source of constant support to Rhys since his diagnosis, by offering advice and practical help.

The route, much of which followed the Trans Pennine Trail, was about 45 miles, and cyclists of varying levels of experience and fitness completed the ride, despite the rain and mud. The youngest participant was only 8 years old!

All funds raised are being used to help people on the Wirral who have Motor Neurone Disease. 

This is a message from Rhys: "I have amazing friends and colleagues who have been incredibly supportive. The bike ride is a great idea that will raise money for the MND charity, which is also hugely supportive and is always there for me. Thanks everyone so much. You're all brilliant!”

This fundraising effort is now spreading further afield, as members of the orchestra of Welsh National Opera are walking around the Great Orme in Llandudno on December 1st. Rhys has a strong connection with South Wales, as he was born and raised near Cardiff, where he still has family. In addition, he has maintained this bond over the years by regularly tutoring at the National Youth Orchestra of Wales.

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